Hankins had second thoughts about leaving

Though Johnathan Hankins is projected to be a first-round NFL draft pick, the defensive tackle acknowledged having mixed feelings about leaving Ohio State with a year of eligibility remaining.

“I had a few second thoughts,” Hankins said today at the NFL combine.

But he talked with family, teammates and coaches, he believes he’s made the right decision. Hankins said that when he informed Urban Meyer of his decision, the OSU coach “was kind of surprised a little bit, but he knew I was thinking about it. He’s supported me 100 percent of the way.” Hankins said Meyer might have been surprised “because he only had one year with me and I’m sure he wanted more. We had established a good relationship. Without him, I wouldn’t be where I am now. I was blessed that he came to Ohio State.”

Hankins said he has a minor pectoral muscle injury and won’t attempt the bench-press drill here.

“Just a precaution,” he said. “I want to be 100 percent when I do it.”